Born Here or Moved Here? Missoula’s Identity Debate

Some say a person will never be a Montanan or even a Missoulian unless you were born here. No matter how long you live here, or how much you do for the community, you will never be considered a “true” Missoulian. There is nothing that will ever change their minds. 

Take J.K. Simmons for example. Even though he wasn’t born in Missoula, or Montana for that matter, a lot of people have adopted him as a Missoulian. He has done a lot for Missoula and the University of Montana. He even recently filmed a movie in the Missoula area.  

My parents weren’t born here, they moved here in 1970. My father was once the owner of the Shack restaurant and often cursed this town for his inability to make a left-hand turn. He eventually moved away. I always considered him a Missoulian for the amount of passion he had for this town. 

I asked the question about what it takes for someone to be a “true Missoulian” on social media. The question itself stirred up some emotional responses. There was some anger directed at me for asking the question.  

Why the Question Stirs Emotions

I was then asked, “what gives you the right to question whether someone is a ‘true’ Missoulian or not?”  I don’t have that right, and that wasn’t my intention. My intent in asking the question wasn’t meant to exclude people. It was meant to have people relate to common issues and experiences that a lot of us share while living in Missoula. 

READ MORE: Here's the Top 6 Reasons Montanans Can't Stand Missoula

What Truly Defines a Missoulian

To me, Missoula has always been an inclusive place. It’s more than just whether you were born here or not, to be a part of this community. When it comes down to it, there are no rules for who can or can’t be a “true” Missoulian.  It’s living, working, and surviving day to day in this town and community that makes us all Missoulians. It's a frame of mind that makes this "a place sort of". 

Below are some of the answers to the question that you might relate to.