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Dear Harvard Students,

In 1956, the then Massachusetts U.S. Senator John F. Kennedy wrote a volume of short biographies entitled, "Profiles in Courage".  This book, which later won the Pulitzer Prize, celebrated those who defied domineering and pervasive points of view to do what they felt was morally right.  Later, the Kennedy Family established the Profiles in Courage Award to honor those who acted with courage despite potential peril.

I share this all to say that I commend you and thank you for having the courage of your convictions, and while I don't have a "Profiles in Courage Award" to offer, please allow me to take this opportunity to affirm that your calls to reunite Renty with his family are BOLD, COURAGEOUS and DESERVING of special recognition!

Harvard University is one of the world's most powerful institutions and enjoys an almost absolute privilege to assert its will.  So, when the least of us challenge their moral authority, we do so at our own peril.  If he were living today, I certainly believe President John F. Kennedy would applaud you for challenging Harvard to be better than their history, and he would acknowledge your efforts to lean the arc of the moral universe a little closer towards justice.

I cannot thank you enough for your support!

Tamara K. Lanier

Renty's family wishes to show their gratitude for your support in the following video.  For the first time publicly, Tamara Lanier shares a recording of her Mother recalling stories of Renty and his self-taught literacy, just before her passing.  It is a privilege to witness Renty's Great Granddaughter listen to her Mother's words of Papa Renty.  Enjoy and thank you for your continued support.

"Dear Harvard Students, Meet Renty."

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Mattye Thompson Lanier

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