The way I see it today I can go to
http://source.android.com, download the source code and use it as I wish. A lot of people confuse some of the closed source google components (Google Mail, Android Market, Google Maps e.t.c) with the open source aspect of the OS.
The situation with the carriers in the U.S blocking certain applications from the Android Market is wrong and against the "open" mantra I will agree but there is always
sideloading and (as mentioned above) the Market isn't a part of the AOSP and is under Google (and its partners) direct control.
I do understand the perceived hypocrisy google extort when promoting "open" Android but from my own experinces and educated choices on which devices I choose,
I've had no issues with the openness of my Android handsets. This is my genuine experince with the platform but I respect that others won't see it that way. I do find the discussion interesting tho.