Just like people living with invisible disabilities, sunflowers carry their weight with grace, face the world with openness, and keep standing. A sunflower stands tall. It is built to withstand heat, wind, and time. The sunflower welcomes the world with bold, unapologetic brightness. Though often seen as simple and cheerful, the sunflower is a quiet symbol of endurance. It is sturdy. Resilient.
The sunflower has emerged as an emblem of invisible disabilities. It originated with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, launched at London’s Gatwick Airport in 2016. The goal was to create a discreet, dignified way for people with invisible disabilities to signal that they may need extra time, understanding, or support in public spaces like airports, transit, or hospitals. The sunflower was chosen as the symbol of invisible disabilities because it reflects the core values of warmth and quiet strength — qualities that mirror the experience of those living with conditions that are not immediately apparent.
Today, the sunflower is recognized by thousands of organizations globally, from airports and libraries to governments and workplaces. It’s not about labeling. It’s about building bridges of understanding in a world that often overlooks quiet struggles. Many organizations now recognize this symbol, training staff to provide support when they see someone displaying the flower.
By embracing the sunflower, society fosters an environment where people can request help more comfortably. If a visitor or employee seeks a quiet space, extra time, or specialized communication strategies, the sunflower lanyard validates their need. It also gently educates the public, reminding everyone that disabilities come in many forms.
For individuals wearing a sunflower lanyard, it can be empowering, affirming that they are not alone in their challenges. This subtle signal promotes acceptance and facilitates participation in social or professional activities with less anxiety, without obligating individuals to share sensitive details. Over time, such visibility can reduce stigma and build a sense of belonging.
If you notice someone wearing a sunflower lanyard, consider the following actions:
- Offer Patience and Understanding: Recognize that the individual may face challenges not immediately apparent.
- Respect Personal Space: Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to the lanyard or the person wearing it.
- Provide Assistance if Appropriate: If you’re in a position to help and it seems needed, offer assistance in a respectful and non-intrusive manner.
- Avoid Assumptions: Do not make assumptions about the person’s abilities or needs based on the lanyard alone.
Employers who integrate the sunflower into their diversity initiatives can help normalize discussions about accessibility, thus increasing employee retention. By encouraging voluntary disclosure, they also gain insights to enhance accommodations, ensuring that every employee has the tools needed to thrive and feel valued each day.
Sandra Sharp works for the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation as the State as a Model Employer (SAME) Development Specialist. She has worked in state government for over ten years, including working for the Colorado Department of Corrections as a teacher. She has recently served as Board Member for the Denver Metro Cultural Committee and the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) Denver. Sandra has the heart of a Public Servant.
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