Freedom is more than a slogan. It’s a very set of principles that should guide our lawmakers. Thankfully, we’re blessed with many reform-minded legislators who are working hard to protect and expand our freedoms. To help guide the conversation, we’ve created the First in Freedom Index. John Locke Foundation Chairman John Hood unveiled the new Index during JLF’s 25th anniversary dinner celebration on Feb 7, 2015. North Carolina ranks No. 23 in freedom among the 50 states and No. 5 in the Southeast.