Times Square: A Civilization of Freedom

Look at the image of Times Square. At first glance, it is the core center of New York City—a chaotic, neon-drenched canyon of endless advertisements.

Many people criticize this place. They argue about the sensory overload, the commercialism, or the overwhelming nature of constant marketing. But to me, this dazzling display of light reveals something far deeper: the history of a civilization built on freedom.

In Times Square, every business and corporation has the right to advertise and attract customers without government intervention. Here, fashion designers, digital artists, and creators can showcase their talents and express their unique visions without state censorship. On the ground below, people can gather to protest for their own interests, raising their voices freely.

As an immigrant who fled the brutal military regime of Burma (Myanmar), I see this square not as consumerism, but as a monument to liberty.

In the center of Rangoon (Yangon), we have a square called Maha Bandula Park, where the Independence Monument stands tall. Yet, growing up there, I never enjoyed the actual fruits of independence or freedom.

Before I fled Rangoon to escape arrest by the military regime, the last thing I witnessed with my own eyes was hundreds of peaceful protesters being brutally shot down by soldiers.

Even before the military coup, true self-expression was forbidden. The government routinely censored art shows and banned certain fashion trends under the guise of "protecting Burmese culture." People were never allowed to express their true political or cultural beliefs.

Having been born and raised in Burma, spending the first 24 years of my life under the shadow of oppression, Times Square looks very different to me than it does to a tourist.

Where others see corporate greed, I see the beautiful absence of fear. The bright, unregulated lights of this photo represent a society where the government cannot dictate what you think, what you buy, what you create, or what you believe.

Times Square, in all its chaotic glory, is a living, breathing civilization of freedom.