HTTP Archetype 10 × 8 in signed open edition print enclosed in 14 × 11 in. frame

The primary purpose of HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is to ensure authentication and protect the integrity of exchanged data. It guards against man-in-the-middle attacks, while its bidirectional encryption prevents eavesdropping and manipulation of communication.

I draw a parallel between this digital protocol and what I call HTTP—Honoring Those That Passed—a cultural framework for how we must protect our heritage, our legacy, and the lives of those who came before us. Just as the original protocol defends data from exploitation and distortion, we must safeguard our cultural narratives from misrepresentation and appropriation.

As we move forward, we must resist the urge to exploit ourselves—or to allow others who fail to understand or respect our value to profit from our greatness. Instead, we must honor, protect, and uplift the truth of who we are and where we come from.