The 'Praise Spez' (or 'Heil Spez') meme originated in June 2023 during the widespread Reddit API protests. As subreddits like r/shitposting were threatened with the replacement of their moderation teams for remaining private, users adopted a policy of malicious compliance. By mandating that every post title include a phrase praising Reddit CEO Steve Huffman (u/Spez), users filled the platform with forced, sarcastic adoration to mock the administration's perceived overreach. The meme serves as a lasting symbol of internet rebellion, digital irony, and the ongoing tension between platform owners and their communities.