Did You Know Not All Disabilities Are Visible?

This week (October 19–25) is Invisible Disabilities Week — a time to raise awareness and support for those living with non-visible conditions.

An invisible disability is a physical, mental, or neurological condition that may not be apparent from the outside but can significantly affect a person's daily life, movements, senses, or activities.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple yet powerful symbol that lets people discreetly share that they have an invisible disability and may need extra time, understanding, or support. The movement began in the United Kingdom and is now recognized across Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland — and it's spreading worldwide.

If you notice someone wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, please show kindness, patience, and understanding. Displaying a sunflower symbol on your office door, reception area, or workspace helps communicate that people with hidden disabilities are welcome and supported.

Living with a hidden disability can make everyday life more challenging — and these challenges are not always easy to recognize or understand. Wearing the Sunflower is a way to promote empathy and inclusion.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program officially launched at UMBC in Spring 2025!

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower movement began in the United Kingdom just a few years ago and has quickly become a symbol of support and understanding in public spaces across Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland.

If you see someone wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, please offer patience and understanding—they may need more time or support. By displaying a sunflower on your office door, reception desk, or waiting area, you signal to those with hidden disabilities that they are welcome, understood, and supported.

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
Living with a hidden disability can make daily life more challenging, and it’s not always easy for others to recognize or comprehend those struggles. Wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a discreet way for individuals to communicate that they have a hidden disability and may need additional support or understanding.

This movement has already made a significant impact in the UK, and with your help, we can bring the same level of awareness and inclusivity to the UMBC community.

How to Participate in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Training

Join our training module on Blackboard to learn more about supporting individuals with hidden disabilities.

1. Follow the group: UMBC Sunflower Program
2. Access the training on the group's page: Once enrolled, you’ll find the training module under the "Organization" section of Blackboard.
3. Complete the requirements: Watch the two short training videos and fill out the exit form.

Upon successful completion of the training, you will receive a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower (sticker or button) to proudly display as a sign of support and inclusivity! 

Let’s work together to make UMBC a more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone!

The Maryland Assistive Technology (AT) Program, in partnership with TransCen Inc., is recruiting 2  young adults with disabilities between the ages of 18-24 to serve as Maryland Assistive Technology Champions. 

AT Champions will collaborate with the Maryland AT Program to develop social media content related to assistive technology, including videos, blog posts, material development, and AT fabrication. Maryland AT Champions will also work with AT Champions from other states in the mid-Atlantic region.

6-Month Focus on: 

AT Awareness, Fabrication, Activism, Funding, and Outreach

DETAILS 

• Six month program running from October 2023 - March 2024
• Approximately 10 hours per month
• 2 virtual, multi-state meetings per month, required
• Stipend of approximately $2,000 provided