The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing in Florida has joined the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, marking a new milestone in the region’s commitment to accessible and inclusive tourism.
The announcement was made during Invisible Disabilities® Week and underscores Martin County’s dedication to ensuring that every visitor—whether exploring the area’s beaches, cultural attractions, or natural landscapes—feels welcomed, understood, and supported.
Expanding inclusive support across the destination
By partnering with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, Martin County now appears on the Sunflower’s global map of participating destinations. This makes it easier for travellers with non-visible disabilities to plan visits with confidence, knowing they’ll encounter businesses and staff who recognise the Sunflower and understand what it represents.
The Tourism Office will soon begin rolling out Sunflower training and programme resources to hotels, attractions, restaurants, boutiques, and other visitor-facing organisations across the county. These materials will equip local businesses with the knowledge to recognise the Sunflower and offer empathetic, informed assistance to guests who may need more time, patience, or support.
Lynn Smith, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower U.S. Regional Director, commented:
“The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple yet powerful way to increase understanding and empathy. We’re thrilled to see the Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing joining this global movement to create spaces where everyone feels seen, respected, and supported.”
Building on a strong foundation of accessibility
Martin County’s adoption of the Sunflower programme complements a series of accessibility initiatives already underway. Recent efforts include:
- Staff earning Certified Autism Travel Professional™ (CATP) credentials from IBCCES
- A partnership with Aira, providing on-demand visual interpretation for blind and low-vision travellers
- Collaboration with Wheel the World to showcase accessible travel experiences across the region
- Receiving a Silver Travel Weekly Magellan Award in the Special Needs Destination category
These initiatives reflect the county’s ongoing commitment to ensuring travellers of all abilities can experience Martin County’s diverse cultural, coastal, and natural offerings.
Nerissa Okiye, Tourism Director for the Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing, says:
Joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is another meaningful step forward in our mission to make Martin County an accessible and welcoming destination for all. We want every visitor to feel comfortable and supported here, whether that means physical accessibility, sensory accommodations, or simply being met with understanding.”
A simple symbol making a global impact
Since its launch in the UK in 2016, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has expanded to more than 40,000 locations across 53 countries. The bright yellow sunflower against a green background discreetly indicates that the wearer has a non-visible disability and may need additional assistance, understanding, or time.
Martin County’s participation helps further extend this global ecosystem of recognition, ensuring that more travellers can move through the world with confidence and dignity.
To learn more about Martin County’s accessibility initiatives, visit discovermartin.com/accessible-travel.