I've even had one Chinese boss try to tell me: "In Chinese culture, we value harmony." I just replied: "Yes I know that, if you're unreasonable with me, I'll happily ruin that harmony."

It is very important to try to understand and adapt to Chinese culture to an extent, but under no circumstances should one simply submit to it.

However, when it comes to angry laowai mobs, you need to understand that most ESL teachers are spineless wonders (you'll notice that by reading this board) and real expats simply aren't going to risk using their business connections/guanxi for your cause. Unless, you've got other disgruntled teachers in the same workplace, don't count upon other laowai to be there for you, even they're very good mates of yours.