Publicizing her genealogy claim through press was Lanier’s only route to Harvard’s attention

Evidence

I knew that my story was an important American story, one the public would support. People wanted to know who Renty was, and I had information. I wanted Harvard to realize what an opportunity I was offering them and I knew that the only way I could get their attention was through press coverage. I also knew that February was the only time to get any interest in Black history. — Tamara Lanier, From These Roots, 275