“We will all profit from a more diverse, inclusive society, understanding, accommodating, even celebrating our differences, while pulling together for the common good.”

–Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Accessibility and inclusivity is something that is vital to the success of a community, because it is not truly a community unless all members feel seen, heard and supported. Approximately 5.1% of Canadians aged 15 and over live with a diagnosed developmental disorder, many identifying as neurodivergent.

As the Burlington Downtown Business Association works to enhance the downtown experience for all its many residents and visitors, we are thrilled to introduce The Green Lanyard Project.

Developed in partnership with Stefanie Peachey, Peachey Counselling and Family Support, this newly launched program works by freely issuing a green lanyard to patrons & visitors of our downtown. The use of this lanyard is to signal to our community members that the wearer of the lanyard (or a member of their party) has an invisible atypical ability. This suggests they may need more time, more patience and more empathy as they navigate their environment. By introducing this model into our downtown, your BIA works to make our community more accessible, inclusive and comfortable to those in need.

So why a green lanyard? Green is often seen as the colour that most widely represents mental health. It also provides a gentle and comforting nod to the neurodivergent community members as well. What does neurodivergent mean? Great question! As education is a great first step to breaking down barriers and building understanding, let’s talk about it! Neurodiversity is medical framework designed to consider and understand the human brain within sensory processing, motor abilities, social comfort, cognition, and focus as neurobiological differences.  Autism Spectrum Disorder ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette’s, Dyspraxia, Synesthesia, Dyscalculia, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy, and chronic mental health illnesses such as Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression.

Recognizing and embracing neurodiversity is crucial for creating inclusive and equitable environments. Equality is everyone having access to an experience. Equity is everyone having the ability to enjoy it. Embracing the needs of neurodiversity in our community works to increased self-esteem and acceptance amongst peers, works to improve mental health, increases empathy and compassion, and provides the empowerment, opportunity and equity we are all entitled to.

How does the program work? Patrons will be able to submit a request for a lanyard, for free, which will then be mailed to them to use at their discretion. Simply wear your lanyard when visiting and exploring our downtown. Through a series of community and public education pieces, downtown businesses will remain as they are, providing the incredible hospitality and warmth our community is known for – we’re just adding a touch of green! Lanyards also proudly feature a BDBA branded pin, complete with emergency release mechanism.

The Green Lanyard Project is a BDBA initiative, and will be only operational within its municipal boundaries, which can be found here. Please continue to check business hours as usual before visiting our downtown, as the project has no impact on individual store hours or operations.

Looking to learn more about the project and neurodiversity? Click here to visit our online learning library.

Ready to grab your lanyard? Click here to request your green lanyard, simply add the subject line “Green Lanyard” and our team will connect with you directly. Lanyards will take 7 to 10 business days from day of request to arrival.

Explore, discover and experience our community today as we work to build a more inclusive tomorrow.

Developed in proud partnership with Burlington-based Registered Social Worker & Accredited Family Mediator Stefanie Peachey, founder of Peachey Counselling and Family Support, and the incredible team at GRAPHIC i.d.