Dear Jack,

I wrote to you recently to reassure you that Survival-in-lockdown was working. We’re here, fighting against the crimes in countries like Brazil and India where tribal peoples are under attack from extremist governments, determined to eradicate human diversity. With coronavirus added, the threat could hardly be worse, but our fightback also works! Supporters, including thousands of Brazilians, have been fighting alongside indigenous peoples to keep fundamentalist missionaries away from uncontacted tribes. It’s working. Last week, an indigenous NGO got them blocked from one area. When these missionaries contact previously uncontacted peoples, the result is genocidal.

I also wrote that our president, Robin Hanbury-Tenison, was gravely stricken with COVID-19. He’s still seriously ill, relying on excellent National Health Service staff, but shows signs of pulling through. Hundreds of you wrote messages at svlint.org/robin, and many have been read to him. He’s so grateful, as is his family (though he can barely speak!). Keep the messages coming here.

I wrote that, unlike many, we weren’t appealing for funds at this difficult time, and I reassured you that we’re not reducing work either. I’ve been asked how we do it when so many (perhaps you) see their income eroded.

The explanation is simple, but worth sharing: It’s because of how we’re funded. I’ll explain:

1) We need a groundswell of public opinion in support of tribal peoples, fighting the racist myth of “brutal savages.” That’s vital if tribal peoples are to thrive. We’ve had hundreds of successes over 50 years (mines stopped, loggers evicted, landgrabs blocked), but each can be undone. Victories must include growing public awareness that tribal peoples, and human diversity, protect biodiversity.

2) We know we’re moving opinion when people are motivated to give hard-earned cash (only ever the means to an end!). If no one is persuaded, then we’re failing and, frankly, deserve to sink. I tell new staff, “If we can’t persuade people, we may as well go the beach!”

3) We’ve always held the principle that we must be funded by “ordinary” donations. These have steadily increased over the years. Many of you now make regular payments without which forward planning is impossible. Thank you!

4) We also get some unexpected windfalls, including legacies. We’ve built those we didn’t need immediately into a “reserve” which is now proving vital. Our independence is secure. Of course we still need regular income and, if donations drop as they have for many, we’ll need to draw more from the reserve. But we can do this. NGOs reliant on individual donations used to be normal, now it’s rare, as most depend on governments, corporations or big foundations (often run by the same people, often responsible for the abuse of human rights!). You, our supporters, give much more secure support.

Anyway, that’s why I’m able to say that Survival itself is undaunted by COVID-19, not forgetting that it’s a massive threat to tribal peoples – especially to the least contacted tribes who remain the most vulnerable peoples of all. We’re doing all we can to stop forced contacts with them.

I do hope you and your loved ones are as protected as possible, against the disease and all its effects. And remember, there are lots of ways you can stand in solidarity with tribal peoples without donating.

Read and watch our stuff and share with others. Ask friends and family to sign up for these emails at svlint.org/GetEmails. Follow us on social media in various languages. Some staff have social media accounts (including me, where I give updates on evolving situations, including on Robin’s progress, as well as articles and more). See more ideas at svlint.org/GetInvolved.

And if you are in a position to support us with another gift, however little, never let me put you off! (svlint.org/donate)

I hope you’re well and stay well. With so many thanks for all your support.