Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) has joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, providing a free sunflower lanyard to anyone with a non0-visible disability, discreetly signaling to airport staff and fellow passengers that they may require extra patience or assistance.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network is a member-based organization of retail, travel and tourism establishments, including over 200 airports, that provide those with non-visible disabilities to discreetly let others around them know that they may need extra patience or assistance. Hidden disabilities can be neurological, cognitive, neurodevelopmental, auditory or sensory and are typically not immediately obvious to others.
GRB is the second airport in Wisconsin to become a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is already a member, and Dane County Regional Airport will join soon, according to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
“Hidden disabilities can be challenging not only for those impacted by them, but also for those trying to provide service to someone with a disability,” Airport Director Marty Piette said in a statement. “That’s why at each of our airline check-in counters, and at the TSA checkpoints, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards will be available, for free, to anyone who wishes to wear one.” You do not have to disclose or discuss what your disability may be, but it indicates you may need a little extra care or patience.”
Staff throughout the airport are receiving information and training about the Sunflower program. “We hope this program provides reassurance to travelers with hidden disabilities that they will be treated with care and professionalism,” added Piette.
“GRB is always looking for ways to enhance our local travelers’ experiences,” Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach said in a statement. “This program is so simple, but so powerful. It has the potential to have a big impact for those who have hidden disabilities.”
