PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Rhode Island College’s faculty union is challenging a school policy it says could limit free speech.

Union spokesman Daniel Weisman said parts of a college diversity plan that prohibits such things as jokes or demeaning statements could unfairly limit free speech.

The college policy calls for “a positive climate where individuals may learn, teach and work free from discrimination.” It forbids “jokes or demeaning statements about a person’s gender, race/ethnicity, minorities, persons with disabling conditions or other disenfranchised groups,” as well as harassment, which can include sexual discrimination and “ethnic or racial slurs and other verbal … conduct related to a person’s race or national origin.”

Weisman welcomed the goal but told The Providence Journal in Saturday’s editions that he opposes restricting the First Amendment.

“The objectives should be pursued without restricting free speech. That is not the solution; there are better solutions,” Weisman said.

The union has filed a grievance with the college and the Board of Governors for Higher Education.

School officials said a committee of students, faculty and staff will review the policy and recommend changes. where necessary.

Earlier this year, RIC professor Lisa Church faced a disciplinary hearing and possible sanctions after she declined to report an allegedly racist remark made among students when she was not present. After public outcry, RIC dropped plans to hold the hearing and Nazarian said the college “actively supports the right to free speech for all and does not discourage students, faculty, staff or any member of the college community from expressing their thoughts or concerns on any matter.”

AP-ES-10-02-04 1038EDT