Here's how Durham Region is making travel more accessible for those with hidden disabilities | CBC News

"A subtle display of sunflowers is helping to make transportation a more inclusive experience in Durham Region. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program allows riders to signal to drivers that they may need extra support by wearing a special lanyard or pin with sunflowers printed on it. The program helps those living with non-visual disabilities, ranging from permanent to temporary or situational conditions that aren't as easily detectable from the outside."

"Kamika Walfall is an ambassador for Durham Region Transit (DRT) and helped launch the program at the DRT in the spring. I felt it was very important for our Durham Region transit staff and riders to feel inclusivity, Walfall told CBC News. Walfall said 98 per cent of DRT staff are trained to recognize riders wearing sunflower lanyards or pins."

"Linda Lowery first used the sunflower program when travelling through Toronto Pearson Airport last year after suffering from a concussion. People didn't seem to be aware that I did need extra assistance, Lowery said. There was only one occasion during the whole process where I was moved into a shorter line to get processed through the terminal. The rest of the time, it didn't seem to make a difference."

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program enables riders to signal need for extra support by wearing sunflower-printed lanyards or pins. The initiative covers non-visual disabilities that can be permanent, temporary, or situational and that are not easily detectable. Kamika Walfall helped launch the program at Durham Region Transit and emphasized inclusivity for staff and riders. Durham Region Transit reports that 98 percent of staff are trained to recognize sunflower identifiers. Drivers are expected to ask questions respectfully and provide extra time or help when needed. Some users report mixed results at other locations, indicating variable awareness and implementation.

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