Helping Chicago travelers with Invisible Needs

By The Chicago Department of Aviation

Not every disability is obvious. Many with hidden disabilities, conditions and chronic illnesses find it difficult to ask others for help with everyday needs. They may experience resistance and a lack of understanding because they ‘don’t look like’ they have a disability. This can present a real challenge for air travelers who require special considerations to make the traveling experience accessible.

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) are seeking to help these individuals by partnering with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which was launched in 2016 and features participation from a variety of business industries, including more than 230 airports and 17 airlines worldwide. The program was originally launched in the United Kingdom and now operates in 31 other countries, including the U.S.

When traveling through O’Hare and Midway International Airports, those with hidden disabilities or conditions can wear a green and yellow Sunflower symbol lanyard, signifying that they may need help, support or simply a little more time. Employees at both airports wearing the “I Support the Sunflower” pin are available to offer assistance, understanding and special attention to these travelers. “This simple tool will give our staff and airport employees the skills and knowledge they need to provide the best customer service possible to all passengers regardless of ability,” said CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee. “As we look to the future of our airports, expanding accessibility in travel is key and increasing inclusivity for all is our top priority.”

Free Sunflower lanyards and ID cards are available at information desks throughout both airports. Travelers can also go to the Sunflower program website, www.hdsunflower.com, and purchase personalized Sunflower ID cards. These cards allow the wearer to choose from 25 different icons to better indicate their specific support needs such as sensory sensitivities, sight or hearing loss, food allergies, limited mobility, needing assistance with heavy objects or a quiet place to sit down.

“Individuals with any kind of invisible – or not immediately-apparent – disability or condition should feel free to use the Sunflower lanyard as a tool in easing stress while traveling,” said Commissioner Rachel Arfa of the Chicago Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities. “This is yet another way that we are working to make our city the most accessible and inclusive city in the world.”

About one in 10 residents of the Chicago area have a disability, and there are others coming from outside of Chicago with invisible disabilities and conditions who frequently travel through O’Hare and Midway. This is why the CDA makes resources like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower a top priority.

The CDA staff looks forward each day to making travel as convenient and enjoyable as possible for all passengers, and especially those with invisible needs.

To learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program at Chicago’s airports, please visit the CDA’s YouTube page: youtube.com/@ChicagoAviationDept.

More information about the program can be found at FlyChicago.com/sunflower.