Safe to Layover in China?

Apologies if this question comes across as silly, I just wanted to check with people who would know more about this situation than me.

Whilst in College I helped set up a group to raise awareness for the Uighur Muslims. My name was attached to the founding of it, however I had little involvement in it beyond that.

I'm planning to travel to Japan next year, and many of the cheaper flights have layovers in China. I've tried to do some research about whether it would be safe for me to Layover in China? Most of the layovers are at most a few hours, I'd have no plans to leave the airport.

I would assume it would be fine, as I'm no one of significance, and I technically wouldn't be entering the country.

Any help with this would be appreciated.