It's not necessarily a free speech protocol. Relays will ban speech they deem unacceptable. I've seen a few hate speech posts reported.

The majority of users are libertarian, relays and clients are yet to develop reputations on what they will allow and ban. This is where the ability to ensure your friends will feel welcome will come as cultures develop around relays.

Bitcoiners are very sceptical and defensive as a result of dealing with years of scamers and deliberate misinformation attacks. From what I have observed, overall it has been a very accepting and positive environment.