recycling symbol
Unicode: 267B FE0F
Description
A wheelchair symbol, typically black, depicting a stylized person in a wheelchair. The FE0F (variation selector-16) generally ensures a colorful or emoji-style presentation, though for this symbol, it often maintains a more utilitarian appearance.
Group:
Symbols > other-symbol
Status:
fully-qualified
Emotion:
Neutral, informational. Represents accessibility, disability, and public services for people with disabilities.
Backstory
The wheelchair symbol (U+267B) is part of the Miscellaneous Symbols block in Unicode, introduced in Unicode 1.1 (1993). It is the internationally recognized 'international symbol of access'. The FE0F variation selector helps ensure it renders as an emoji character, rather than a monochrome text symbol, though its visual style remains fairly consistent across platforms due to its functional nature.
Usage Examples
- Indicating an accessible entrance: 'Wheelchair access available here ♿'
- Labeling a restroom: 'Accessible Restroom ♿'
- Referring to disability services: 'Our university provides full ♿ support.'
- Raising awareness for accessibility: 'Pushing for more inclusive public spaces ♿'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Widely recognized as a symbol for accessible infrastructure (ramps, restrooms), disability rights, and mobility services.
East Asian culture:
Similar recognition as an accessibility symbol. May also appear in contexts of rehabilitation or medical services.