Durham Region Transit (DRT) is proud to announce its membership in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion for people with non-visible disabilities. This significant step supports both riders and employees across Durham Region, helping ensure everyone can travel with greater confidence, respect, and understanding.

The Sunflower lanyard, a globally recognized symbol, empowers DRT riders to discreetly let staff know they may require extra support, patience, or time. The program is designed to make public transit smoother, more respectful, and more inclusive for everyone, helping to break down barriers and champion greater understanding in our communities.

The importance of the program

Serving eight vibrant municipalities across Durham Region, DRT offers innovative transit services: scheduled, On Demand, and Specialized.

Training for DRT employees

To ensure that every rider feels seen, supported, and welcomed, DRT is rolling out comprehensive staff training. All employees will learn how to recognize and support Sunflower wearers by offering help, showing kindness and patience, listening closely, and always treating riders with respect and understanding.

DRT's commitment to reducing transit barriers speaks to its goal of enhancing the customer experience by making travel in Durham safer, more accessible, convenient and inclusive. DRT's employees recognize the Sunflower logo and will show support by:

  • Asking if they can help
  • Being kind
  • Not judging
  • Having patience
  • Listening closely
  • Offering to kneel the bus and lower the ramp
  • Showing respect and sensitivity

Making travel more accessible

DRT’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion was recently recognized with the Canadian Urban Transportation Association (CUTA) Corporate Award for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, celebrating the agency’s ongoing efforts to foster a transit system that welcomes all.

As part of the launch, DRT has introduced a specially wrapped bus featuring the Sunflower symbol—a bold and visible reminder that inclusion is on the move across Durham.

Clare Kumar, Regional Director, Canada, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, said:

“Congratulations to Durham Region Transit on this meaningful recognition. Your leadership, reflected in the bold steps you are taking to advance awareness of the Sunflower program, is helping make transit across Durham more compassionate and inclusive for people with non-visible disabilities.”

With Sunflower lanyards and resource materials available upon request, and staff trained to help, DRT is committed to offering support whenever and wherever it’s needed, making travel in Durham Region more accessible, safe, and inclusive for all.

For more information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in Durham Region, select here