Local non-profit groups are pressing the City of Nanaimo to formally adopt an internationally recognised emblem designed to help people with hidden disabilities access services more easily and with dignity.
What the proposal asks
In a letter sent this month to the City’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness, Clay Tree Society and the Nanaimo Association for Community Living urged the municipality to consider joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Network and to adopt the sunflower symbol at City-owned facilities.
The request asks the City to incorporate the sunflower emblem — usually worn as a green lanyard with bright yellow sunflowers — across its buildings and service points. Organisers say municipal adoption could encourage other local organisations and businesses to follow suit.
Origins and use of the symbol
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Network originated at Gatwick Airport in London, England, in 2016. It was created by the airport in partnership with local charities to help travellers whose disabilities are not readily apparent signal they may need extra time, support or understanding while they navigate services.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Gatwick Airport, London |
| Year launched | 2016 |
| Symbol | Green lanyard with yellow sunflowers |
| Purpose | Identify people with non-apparent disabilities who may need extra support |
Local voices and expected benefits
Representatives from the two non-profits outlined why they think Nanaimo would benefit. Alexandria Stuart, executive director at Clay Tree Society, told CHLY that City adoption of the sunflower could be a model that prompts private businesses and other organisations to participate.
"If the City starts to incorporate the sunflower symbol at its own facilities, it may encourage other local businesses or organizations to join as well."
Sean Enns, integrated services manager for the Nanaimo Association for Community Living, joined the call to expand visibility and awareness of supports for people whose disabilities are not obvious to a casual observer.
What adoption would look like
The proposal presented to the advisory committee asks the City to display the sunflower emblem at municipal facilities and to train staff to recognise and respond appropriately when someone indicates a need for additional support. The groups see displaying the symbol as an entry-level step — one that signals awareness while complementary staff training and service adjustments follow.
- Visibility: Sunflower emblems at service counters and on staff lanyards.
- Staff training: Front-line employees briefed on how to offer discreet assistance.
- Community uptake: Municipal adoption expected to encourage local businesses and organisations to participate.
Context and next steps
The advisory committee reviews accessibility-related recommendations and advises council on inclusive practices. If the committee recommends adoption, a report and possible implementation plan would be prepared for council consideration. Any formal adoption by the City would likely be followed by consultations on staff training needs, procurement of signage or lanyards, and communications to inform residents.
Advocates say the sunflower initiative is low-cost and readily recognisable, and that it can make public services more navigable for people who face hidden barriers to participation. For a city that seeks to be welcoming and accessible, the decision will be watched by disability advocates and service providers alike.
As Nanaimo considers the proposal, proponents stress that the emblem is intended to complement — not replace — broader accessibility improvements such as physical upgrades, policy changes and ongoing staff education.
