I am not sure why one would need a 100% free version of an outdated Debian.
It is easier to not use the non-free repositories and install Icecat as a
replacement for Iceweasel than to try and update an outdated system
completely. Debian is outdated enough as it is.
I understand that RMS needs gNewSense, because he can't use a distro not
recommended by the FSF in good conscience, but at the same time he needs it
to support his Lemote Yeeloong. This just narrows the choice to one
possibility.
If I'd be interested in using Debian though, I'd take Debian and avoid the
tiny fractions of non-free stuff that are in it.
