THE RAPID CITY SENTINEL

Black Hills Seasonal Workers Resource Guide

mount rushmore national memorial with state flags
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GET HELP NOW

If you are working in the Black Hills and feel trapped, unsafe, or cheated, you have rights. Help is free, private, and available in many languages. You do not have to handle this alone.

1. I AM IN A CRISIS

​If you feel overwhelmed, panicked, or like you cannot go on, call this number first. They will talk to you and help you find a safe path forward.

  • ​Call or Text: 988
  • ​What it is: The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7). It is free and confidential.

2. I NEED A SAFE PLACE TO GO

If you have left your job and are stranded, hungry, or have no place to sleep:

  • ​Dial: 211
  • ​What it is: The South Dakota Helpline. They will connect you to local shelters (like the Cornerstone Rescue Mission), food, and emergency transportation in Rapid City.

3. I AM BEING FORCED TO STAY

​If your boss took your passport, is using “debt” to keep you from leaving, or is threatening you:

  • ​Call: 1-888-373-7888 (or Text: 233733)
  • ​What it is: The National Human Trafficking Hotline. They speak many languages and can coordinate with law enforcement to get you out safely.

4. I AM A J-1 STUDENT IN DANGER

​If you are an international student and your employer is exploiting you, bypass your sponsor and call the government directly.

  • ​Call: 1-866-283-9090
  • ​Email: Jvisas@state.gov
  • ​What it is: The U.S. State Department J-1 Emergency Hotline. You will not get in trouble for reporting an abusive employer.

5. MY WAGES WERE STOLEN

If your boss is withholding your pay, making illegal deductions, or charging you for housing you did not agree to:

  • ​Action: File a claim with the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR).
  • ​Note: You generally have 2 to 3 years to file a claim for stolen wages. Even if you left the job months ago, you can still get your money.

6. MY MEDICAL PRIVACY (ADA & HIPAA)

​Your boss cannot weaponize your health against you.

  • ​Your Right: You do not have to disclose medical conditions (like bipolar disorder or allergies) unless you need an accommodation.
  • ​Privacy: If you do disclose a condition, your boss MUST keep it confidential. They cannot use your health as a reason to “monitor” you or fire you.

​THE SENTINEL TIP: If you are planning to leave a dangerous situation, try to take photos of your contract, your paystubs, and any text messages from your boss. These are your “receipts” for the law.

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