I like it, let’s try it. I’m sure there are pitfalls but they can’t be worse than what we have now.

Sounds like you don’t have enough experience with modern automatics to hold such a strong opinion about them then. I love a manual transmission but modern automatics are usually very good. There was a time they were less efficient and less good at shifting at the right time but those days are pretty well gone. You do still sacrifice some fine control that you almost never need and they are less fun, but let’s not talk shit on them for issues that have been solved for years.

You’ll only be scared before you go to the protest. Once you’re there you’ll be fine. The vibe on the ground at every protest I’ve been to is great and there’s a real feeling of camaraderie and support from your community. There is some risk, yes. It’s probably still safer than crossing the street.