Friday is the 249th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Ocean State Stories asked a sampling of Rhode Islanders what freedom means to them today. Here’s what they said: — Kelli J. Armstrong, president of Salve Regina University. When I contemplate freedom, or being free, I think of the ability to express oneself fearlessly.  A free society values human dignity; it accepts and celebrates individual differences and views them as a source of strength in a community.   A free community is one that allows all members opportunities for advancement and provides avenues to improve lives, regardless of … Continue reading Ocean State Stories asked a sampling of Rhode Islanders what freedom means to them today. Here’s what they said.