Here Comes the Sun! The Sunflower Reveals Hidden Disabilities

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: A Symbol of Inclusion

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple yet powerful tool. Wearing the Sunflower is a way people with non-visible disabilities can discreetly signal that they may need extra support. It might allow others in public spaces like stores, transport, and workplaces to recognize the wearer might need more understanding or time. For people with hidden disabilities the Sunflower symbol can make navigating daily life easier by giving others a visual cue.

“Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it is not there.” – HD Sunflower USA Corp

Maybe you are wondering ‘why a sunflower?’ The goal was to find something discreet but also visible from a distance. The founders felt that the Sunflower would be the perfect symbol to be distinctive and suggest happiness, strength, and growth. It is also universally known.

Raising Awareness

I was a little disappointed that I had missed this new resource so I did a little digging.

Apparently it was our neighbors across the pond that planted this great seed. The idea was born in 2016 at London Gatwick Airport in England. A panel including the Airport Passenger Advisory Group, the Gatwick Team, and a variety of local and national charities, like the Alzheimer’s Society and the National Autistic Society worked together. They chose to launch a green lanyard with sunflowers for passengers with hidden disabilities to self-identify, should they choose, that they may need additional help, patience, or time while traveling.

Image of someone in a navy blue t-shirt wearing the bold Sunflower green lanyard with a Sunflower card that reads "Hidden Disabilities" White text in teh corner says "Making the Invisible Visible."

This initiative made its way to the United States of America in 2020. Recognition is growing and over 65 countries around the world have adopted this symbol. Businesses can choose to participate in the movement by becoming members and receiving official Sunflower training for their employees.

It’s amazing to see how far it is spreading! Have you seen the Sunflower lanyards, pins, wristbands, or caps in use around your area?

Image of yellow background with a woman wearing a white t-shirt and the Sunflower green lanyard. She has beautiful tan skin and brown eyes. Text in white reads "Not every disability is visible, some are just not obvious."

You can even read and learn more about different kinds of hidden disabilities at: https://hdsunflower.com/us/insights/category/invisible-disabilities

Discover Sunflower-friendly places to make your trips out even better. Find the Sunflower is a search tool to discover places that are Sunflower aware and ready to serve people with invisible disabilities.

The Sunflower’s Impact on Adults

For adults, the Sunflower can be a game-changer. Needs can be communicated without someone having to explain conditions repeatedly. This can reduce anxiety and stress, making everyday activities more manageable. For instance, in a busy airport, wearing the Sunflower lanyard can signal to staff that the wearer may need extra time or assistance, ensuring a smoother travel experience.

The Sunflower’s Impact on Children

Children, too, benefit from the Sunflower symbol. It helps them understand and recognize that not all disabilities are visible. This could foster empathy and inclusivity from a young age. The LEGO Group’s recent incorporation of the Sunflower into their toys is a significant step towards promoting awareness and understanding among children. Sets like LEGO DUPLO® First Time at the Airport and LEGO® Friends Heartlake City Airport and Airplane both feature characters wearing Sunflower lanyards. Toys help children learn about and accept differences in a fun and engaging way.

The LEGO Group’s Involvement

The LEGO Group’s partnership with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a commendable initiative. By introducing toys that feature the Sunflower lanyard, LEGO is not only raising awareness but also promoting inclusivity in play. We’ve seen the popular building blocks clicking into inclusion and accessibility more and more. Lego included its first wheelchair in a hospital set back in 1975 but the Fun in the Park set released in 2016 was much more playable and positive with working axle and wheels. The LEGO® Friends series sets also launched a variety of characters with disabilities like ADHD, limb difference, anxiety, vitiligo, and Down Syndrome. The ability to customize minifigures with the Sunflower symbol further personalizes the experience. Fans can finally see themselves or their loved ones represented in the toys they cherish.

Conclusion

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and its incorporation into popular brands like LEGO signify a growing awareness and acceptance of non-visible disabilities. This simple symbol has the power to make a significant difference in the lives of many, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. For both adults and children, the Sunflower is more than just a piece of fabric or plastic. It’s a beacon of hope and a reminder that everyone deserves to be seen and supported, no matter what challenges they face.

What are your thoughts on this initiative? Learn more at https://hdsunflower.com/us.