I think it makes sense in the "beer is tangible" and "speech is not" sense (to my brain anyway). If I saw a "free beer" sign in a window I'd probably be inclined to think (albeit suspiciously) that there might be a frosty mug inside at no cost to me. Whereas if I saw a "free speech" sign, I'd assume they support my right to say whatever I want (or I suppose maybe that there's a lecture going on inside with no admittance fee).

We all got different brains though, shoutout learning from others perspectives, ty for sharing yours.

There's nothing to learn from his incorrect perspective. It means available at no cost.

> It is - but the mainstream “free as in beer” makes no sense. Who gives away free beer?

The quote references it because it is (or was) a cliché promotional offering.

Try this on for size: "open as in bar".