Can I still say that?
A must-read for anyone who wants to keep the dialogue going in a divided society.
Have you ever caught yourself hesitating with your words or fearing that you might say the "wrong" thing when talking about inclusion? You’re not alone. It’s a sensitive topic that many struggle with. We want to do the right thing, but the path can often feel unclear.
Why this book?
Sometimes it happens: you say something, with the best intentions, and yet it hits the wrong note. That feeling – awkward, unexpected, sometimes even defensive – is something we all recognize. It happened to me once during an evening in Paris, when I thought I was just having a fun, open conversation. In hindsight, I realized I had inadvertently said something inappropriate. It was a wake-up call, even for someone who works on inclusion every day. Inclusion isn’t just about others, it’s about yourself too. This book was born from that realization. I wanted to understand why we feel so uncomfortable and, more importantly, how we can deal with it. Why this book? Because I believe that discomfort can be a gateway to understanding and connection. And that if we dare to push through it, we can all become better at having conversations that truly matter.
Who is this book for?
I’d love to say: for everyone. But that might sound too broad. This book is for you if you’ve ever questioned what you can or can’t say. For parents who fear being corrected by their kids. For colleagues unsure of how to ask a question without sounding awkward. And even for people who feel attacked when someone labels them in a way they don’t identify with.
It’s for those who want to understand each other, who believe that, despite our differences, we can learn from one another. This is not a book with a finger-pointing approach, not a political pamphlet, and certainly not a guide to “perfect behavior.” It’s an invitation. An invitation to start the conversation, especially when it feels uncomfortable.
What can you expect?
This book will take you through relatable situations, from awkward conversations with your grandparents to that one question you’re too afraid to ask at work. It’s packed with personal anecdotes, humor, and insights from my work in the field of inclusion. You’ll laugh (sometimes at yourself), maybe squirm a little in your seat, but above all, you’ll be inspired to look at inclusion in a whole new way.
It’s a book that doesn’t judge but invites you in. A book that helps you become more comfortable with discomfort. Because when we embrace that discomfort, we create space for real conversations. And that’s where inclusion begins.
Still not convinced?
No worries, I’ll let others convince you! Here’s what the media are saying about Can I Still Say That?:
- "Essential reading for anyone involved in inclusion. Honest, refreshing, and full of new insights to make conversations more impactful." – Frankwatching
- "This book opens conversations and helps build bridges in a time when inclusion and change are often seen as threatening. With respect and nuance, Taha Riani shows how we can better understand each other and grow together, despite our differences." – HLN
- "In his book, Riani offers great recommendations for dialogue. Or as he puts it, for ‘conversations that make a difference and contribute to a world where we truly see and value each other.’" – Managementboek.nl