What does Celebrate Diversity mean?

Celebrate Diversity is the central message for this year’s event and is complimented by a creative logo design based around a traditional Ukrainian bead necklace known as Namysto. More than just a piece of jewellery, Namysto is a protective amulet and a symbol of beauty and health. It is made up of many different beads, each with its own design and celebrates both diversity and individuality.

Tradition and modernity

According to Viktoriia Sydorenko, International PR Manager for the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest, the slogan encapsulates both tradition and modernity. "We were trying to combine traditions. On one hand we'd like to present our country and history, but on the other, we want to show that Ukraine is a modern country."

When asked about the Ukrainian traditional necklace, Namysto, Viktoriia explained that it can also be seen as a representation of both Europe and indeed Eurovision. "It's all about Europe: each country is so different, but at the same time comes together by sharing common values. This diversity of cultures makes us stronger as we complete each other."  

Different yet similar

The first lines of Albania's song this year may be seen as a reflection of the Celebrate Diversity slogan: We're so alike, yet different. Lindita, the Albanian singer, was extremely happy that her message fitted with that of the slogan. "When I think of the slogan it means loving each other for who you are and not trying to change each other," she said.

The slogan also fits in with linguistic diversity. For the first time ever, the Belarussian entry is performed in its native language. Naviband, the act representing Belarus said: "We are so glad to convey the spirit of our country and celebrate diversity of our traditions."

French singer Alma considers singing in her own language to be a tool of self-expression. "It's amazing that I can sing Requiem in my own language. The Eurovision experience is about getting to know other people from different countries through language. There are no borders in the Eurovision Song Contest and I am happy to be a part of it," she explained. 

Multiple interpretations

Everyone has their own interpreation of what Celebrate Diversity means. We asked various people involved in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest to share their own views. 

"For me personally, it is a slogan that conveys the beauty and the diversity of the cultures, nations and people," said Lily Yamborak, Head of Press for the Ukrainian Delegation.

Enrico Picciolo from the website Eurofestivalitalia explained what diversity means to him: "Freedom, tolerance and respect for all opinions."

"Eurovision is a platform for different types of music. For me, Celebrate Diversity means a unification of different audiences," Maciej from the website Eurowizja Poland said. 

Serbia's participant this year thinks the message of the slogan can be used as a force for good. "It is actually a very simple slogan but has a really deep meaning. There's a lot of non-acceptance in the world and Eurovision is one that shines a light on celebrating difference," said singer Tijana Bogićević.

Manel Navarro from Spain added that the slogan gives us something to aspire to. "It means celebrating freedom, love and life! It's what makes our world lovely."

What does Celebrate Diversity mean to you? Let us know in the comments.