Lego has partnered with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to promote awareness of hidden disabilities by introducing characters wearing sunflower lanyards across multiple sets. The sunflower lanyard is recognised globally as a discreet symbol indicating that someone has a hidden disability. This initiative builds on Lego’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, with previous character additions reflecting a wide range of skin tones, cultures and physical differences.
Expanding Disability Inclusive Representation
Lego continues to enhance the inclusivity of its characters, allowing children and adults to see themselves reflected in the toys they play with. Recent character introductions have included those with:
- Limb differences
- Vitiligo
- Hearing impairments
The addition of characters wearing sunflower lanyards increases representation by recognising those with hidden disabilities. This initiative helps foster greater understanding and empathy by making diversity a visible and natural part of play.
Sunflower Lanyard Characters and Customisation Options
Lego has introduced sunflower lanyard characters across multiple product lines, making hidden disability awareness accessible to users of all ages. These characters appear in:
- Duplo Sets: For toddlers and young children, featuring a child character with a sunflower lanyard.
- Friends Sets: For older children, including a character with a sunflower lanyard and noise-cancelling headphones to reflect sensory needs.
- Icons Sets: For adults, showcasing a printed brick with a sunflower lanyard hanging by an apartment door, promoting awareness through storytelling.
Additionally, fans can customise their own minifigures with the sunflower symbol at 55 Minifigure Factories worldwide and online. This feature allows users to design characters that represent themselves, friends, or family members, empowering them to share personal stories and promote disability inclusion through play.
Why Representation Matters
Representation in toys plays a crucial role in shaping how children understand the world. Inclusive characters allow children with disabilities to feel seen and valued. For their peers, these characters offer an opportunity to learn about and appreciate diversity.
For adults, initiatives like this encourage conversations about accessibility and empathy, helping to build more inclusive communities.
Sources
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. “The LEGO Group joins Hidden Disabilities Sunflower”https://hdsunflower.com/uk/insights/post/the-lego-group-joins-hidden-disabilities-sunflower
The Guardian. “New Lego characters aim to represent hidden disabilities such as autism” https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/dec/03/lego-introduces-characters-wearing-hidden-disability-sunflower-lanyard