Transplants

By: Angie Mozqueda

Prevention Specialist

“There is a concept known as the principle of 1/3, which suggests that when a group or community’s population increases by one-third, that community’s core beliefs or values may change. Do you feel this has happened in our community?”-Facebook post by a community member that inspired this article

After reading the comments on a recent post,(quoted above) it struck me that the 45 responses reflected a mixed sentiment regarding the influx of new residents to Roundup, with both negative and positive impacts mentioned.

I conducted an informal poll on Musselshell Media’s Facebook page to gauge local opinions, asking how many residents are from Roundup versus those who have moved here from elsewhere. The results were somewhat expected:

From the poll of 206 community members, 140 (67%) reported being from outside Roundup, while only 66 (32%) were born and raised here.

This article’s topic stems from ongoing discussions within the community about whether “all these new people moving into Roundup are ruining the small town,” or whether, conversely, “the new faces and ideas are enriching our community.”

The sentiment that some Montanans express toward “transplants” often stems from a few specific factors, though not all locals share these views:

1. **Rapid Growth**: The surge of newcomers can strain local resources, infrastructure, and housing, leading to frustration among long-time residents.

2. **Cultural Differences**: Variations in lifestyle and values may create tension, causing some locals to feel that newcomers’ perspectives clash with traditional ways of life.

3. **Cost of Living**: New residents from higher-cost areas can inflate housing prices, making it challenging for locals to afford and maintain their homes.

Despite these tensions, many Montanans are welcoming to newcomers, appreciating the diversity and fresh perspectives they bring. Conversations around these topics are nuanced and can vary greatly from person to person. A shift in mindset can be beneficial; rather than viewing our neighbors with suspicion or judgment, we can choose to see them as potential friends and allies. Differences should be celebrated, not used as a reason for division. By focusing on our common ground, we can build bridges that unite us instead of walls that keep us apart.

If we reflect on our community, we can note that some of the most generous contributors are those who have moved here from other places. For example:

- School Superintendent Josiah Mayfield, originally from Northern California, has received widespread support for his educational efforts.

- Anthony Buich and his family, also from California, have taken over the Back Porch business and he coaches high school football.

- Stephanie Graben and John Chavez, owners of Pronto Construction and The Fat Straw, likewise hail from California.

-Teachers and some support staff are also not from Roundup and sometimes not even from our State but they have stepped up to teach and contribute a lot to our community and youth. A lot of times giving so much of their time to accommodate our athletes, students, and families.

- Many of our local deputies are not originally from Roundup, yet they dedicate countless hours and sacrifices to our community, deserving recognition and gratitude.

So do we continue to have such negative feelings towards Californians, or anyone else that’s from anywhere but here? Where would our community be without all these helping hands?

At the end of the day, the origins of a person should not dictate their worth. Each individual carries a rich tapestry of culture, diversity, family traditions, and moral values that are uniquely their own. These elements shape who they are and contribute to the vibrant mosaic of our community. Who are we to determine that one person’s background holds more significance than another’s? My belief is straightforward: as long as you embody kindness and integrity, I wholeheartedly respect and honor the values, traditions, and diverse experiences you bring with you. It’s this blend of differences that enriches our lives and fosters a deeper understanding among us all.

It’s time to rekindle the spirit of community and neighborliness in Roundup. Let’s create an environment where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. We should strive to be neighbors who not only borrow a cup of sugar but also offer one in return—and much more. Together, we can cultivate Roundup into a place where kindness and support are the norms. The power to build a strong, connected community lies in our hands. Will you choose to build each other up or tear each other down?