The Government of Yukon is announcing that Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport is now a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, a global initiative that helps make travel more inclusive for people with non-visible disabilities.
The Sunflower symbol, worn as a lanyard or bracelet, signals that a person may have a non-visible disability and need a little extra time, patience or support. Conditions may include autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety or sensory sensitivities, among others.
As a Sunflower member, Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport is aiming to create a more inclusive environment for all travellers. Airport staff received training and resources to ensure everyone understands non-visible disabilities and knows how to offer respectful support. Sunflower lanyards for wearers and supporters are available for free for travellers and staff and Sunflower signage and information is displayed throughout the terminal building to help build awareness.
The Government of Yukon aims to train at least 80 per cent of airport staff on the Sunflower’s purpose and raise awareness of non-visible disabilities to create a welcoming and accessible environment for all.
To learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and how it works, people can visit hdsunflower.com. Information about the Sunflower at the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport is available at yukonairports.ca/sunflower-program.
Travel connects people and communities and should be accessible to everyone. By joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, we are helping to ensure all Yukoners and visitors feel respected and supported to travel safely and comfortably through our airport.
We are delighted to welcome the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport to the Sunflower program and the growing community of like-minded airports across Canada. Resident and visitor Sunflower wearers can take comfort in being treated with kindness and compassion on their journey.
Autism Yukon is thrilled to see the program implemented at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport. For many autistic individuals and others with hidden disabilities, travel through airports can be overwhelming and overstimulating. We congratulate the airport on this step to making travel a more inclusive experience for all.
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Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a global program supporting individuals with non-visible disabilities, conditions and chronic illnesses.
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Launched in the UK in 2016 and now recognized in over 90 countries, the program helps thousands of organizations, including over 330 airports and 40 airlines, advance disability inclusion. The subtle, voluntary Sunflower symbol signals a need for support.
The Sunflower gives individuals a simple way to share that they have a non-visible disability. This subtle, voluntary signal empowers people to indicate they may need extra assistance, understanding, time or space. By fostering awareness, the program helps create inclusive, accessible environments where people feel welcome, valued and supported.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower operates in markets including the U.S., UK, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, Luxembourg, Poland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Mauritius and the UAE. The company is privately held and headquartered in the UK, working globally to advance disability inclusion.
Tim Kucharuk
Press Secretary, Cabinet Communications
867-335-2419
[email protected]
Brittany Cross
Communications, Highways and Public Works
867-332-4601
[email protected]