article_snippet.sent: (CNN)The United States is urging China to release five young feminists who face years in prison over five young feminists who face years in prison over their campaign for gender equality campaign for gender equality.
article_snippet.sent: Authorities detained the women in three cities -- Beijing, Guangzhou and Hangzhou -- a few days ahead of events planned for International Women's Day on March 8.
article_snippet.sent: We strongly support the efforts of these activists to make progress on these challenging issues, and We believe that Chinese authorities should also support Chinese authorities, not silence Chinese authorities.
article_snippet.sent: the women were simply calling for an end to sexual harassment," said William Nee, China researcher at Amnesty International.
article_snippet.sent: The five are members of China's Women's Rights Action Group.
article_snippet.sent: Chinese authorities rebuked Wei comment, saying public figures should respect the nation's sovereignty and independence.
highlights_snippet.sent: Chinese authorities detained Chinese authorities last month over Chinese authorities campaign for gender equality .