What does Freedom Mean to You?

“Freedom” is one of the most cherished values in American life—but it doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone. For some, it’s about individual rights and limited government. For others, it’s about opportunity, security, or being free from discrimination. Our personal experiences, values, and identities all shape how we define and relate to the idea of freedom.

At this meeting, we’ll explore what freedom means to each of us and how those meanings have been shaped by our lives.

We’ll ask questions such as:

• What does freedom mean to you?
• What experiences in your life have made you feel most or least free?
• What values or principles most shape your understanding of freedom? Have your views on freedom changed over time?
• Are there situations where you think curtailing freedom is justified? If so, by whom and under what conditions?

This conversation invites us to reflect on a core American ideal, share our perspectives, and listen with curiosity to the many ways freedom is understood and experienced.

Please do your best to arrive at the beginning of the meeting – once we are in breakout rooms and the conversations have started, the meeting doors close to new arrivals. The breakout rooms open (and the doors close) approximately 15 minutes after the hour.