VIA RAIL JOINS THE HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER PROGRAM TO BETTER RECOGNIZE NON-VISIBLE DISABILITIES

Montréal, June 1, 2026 – To mark National Accessibility Week, VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail) announces today that it is joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, a globally recognized initiative that aims to better support people living with non-visible disabilities. 

Travellers who choose to participate in the program may wear a discreet symbol, often a green lanyard with sunflowers, to indicate that they may need more time, patience or support, without having to explain their situation. 

“Joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program reflects VIA Rail’s commitment to creating a more accessible and supportive travel experience for all passengers. For people living with non-visible disabilities, travel can sometimes present additional barriers or uncertainty,” said Clare Kumar, Regional Director, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, Canada. “By recognizing the Sunflower, VIA Rail is helping create an environment where people can feel more understood, respected, and confident asking for support if they need it.” 

By joining the program, VIA Rail is continuing its efforts to provide a more accessible, inclusive and attentive travel experience that reflects the realities of every passenger, helping people feel understood, comfortable and respected throughout their journey. 

“We are proud to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. Some disabilities are not visible, but they can still influence the travel experience. This simple symbol helps our teams adapt their approach with empathy, while respecting each person’s individual reality,” said Denis Lavoie, Chief Legal, Risk and Security Officer, and executive sponsor for accessibility at VIA Rail. 

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program has already been adopted by a growing number of transportation providers and infrastructure operators around the world, helping create more accessible travel environments. 

At VIA Rail, our teams are recognized for their attentiveness, empathy and care, which help create a more reassuring environment for travellers. As part of this initiative, employees have been trained to recognize the symbol and adapt their approach when needed, helping create smoother and simpler interactions for passengers. 

Sunflower lanyards are now available upon request at ticket counters in select VIA Rail stations, including Québec City, Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto, Windsor, Halifax, Winnipeg, Jasper and Vancouver. 

Joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is part of a broader effort to continuously improve accessibility and the customer experience at VIA Rail.