Every November, our community comes together to shine a light on diabetes awareness. But if you’re new to this journey, you might be asking: What color is diabetes awareness?
The answer is simple, yet powerful: blue. But the meaning behind the color runs deep — and at Lizzie’s Linebackers, it’s more than just a symbol. It’s a statement of unity, hope, and the relentless fight for awareness and support for type 1 diabetes (T1D).
Why Blue Matters: A Global Symbol of Hope
The blue circle is the official global symbol for diabetes awareness. Introduced by the International Diabetes Federation, this emblem was created to unify the world in the fight against diabetes. The blue represents the sky — something we all share — and the circle symbolizes life, health, and unity.
Just like the pink ribbon stands for breast cancer awareness, the blue circle is the visual rally cry for diabetes.
Beyond the Ribbon: Why Visibility Is So Important
We often hear, “You don’t look sick.” That’s because type 1 diabetes is often invisible. There are no outward signs of the constant monitoring, insulin dosing, or low-blood-sugar scares. That’s why wearing blue is powerful — it turns the invisible into something people can see, ask about, and understand.
At Lizzie’s Linebackers, we’ve made it our mission since 2010 to give type 1 diabetes the visibility and support it deserves. When you wear blue, you’re not just showing solidarity. You’re telling the world, “We see this. We support this. And we’re fighting for more.”
How to Show Your Support in Blue
Want to make a difference this Diabetes Awareness Month? Here are a few easy ways to use the color blue to start a conversation:
- Wear a blue shirt, wristband, or ribbon throughout November.
- Display the blue circle on your car, bag, or water bottle.
- Change your social media profile picture to include a blue theme.
- Join or organize a “Wear Blue Day” at your school, office, or community center.
- Support a local nonprofit like BreakthroughT1D.org, which raises awareness for T1D kids and families.
We even have custom “I Wear Blue for My T1D” shirts available in our shop — perfect for events, school days, or just showing support every day. Get yours here »
Grey? Blue? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve seen references to grey or grey-and-blue ribbons for diabetes, you’re not wrong. Earlier awareness campaigns used grey or silver ribbons, especially in the U.S. But over the years, blue has become the internationally recognized color for diabetes awareness, unifying support across countries and organizations.
So whether it’s a solid blue shirt or a ribbon with a hint of grey — the meaning is the same: visibility, community, and care.
When You Wear Blue, You’re Not Alone
This month, when you wear blue, know this: you’re joining a global movement. Buildings across the world are lighting up in blue. Families are hosting fundraisers. Kids are standing tall in their schools to educate others. And every person who sees that color learns a little more about what it means to live with — and support — type 1 diabetes.
Let’s Light It Up Together
Join us this November for Diabetes Awareness Month. Share your photos, your stories, and your blue gear using hashtags like #BlueForT1D and #DiabetesAwarenessMonth. And tag us — we’d love to feature your support on our Instagram and Facebook pages.
Together, let’s make sure everyone knows:
Blue means strength. Blue means unity. Blue means we see you.
