Commentary: Immigrants help build the cities that make Utah shine. Let’s embrace them.

When I first came to the United States from my native country of South Africa in 1983, at age 22, all I brought with me was a suitcase, $1,000 and a big dream of success in America. I grew up in Durban inspired by American democratic ideals of freedom and opportunity. I knew in my heart that if you worked hard — and had a little luck — you could make it beyond your wildest expectations here.For centuries, this belief has fueled the ambitions of many immigrants like me. We start busin