Learning shooting drills along with their ABCs: American childhood has become a nightmare

There have been more mass shootings than days in the year so far in the US in 2023, while 22 of those have been at schools. When Taylor Mulligan moved to Ireland, she realised her years of training for an active shooter were not necessary here. And she realised how dark American childhood has become

In America, lunch money, equipment for music or gym class, and an active shooter plan comes with the kiss goodbye at drop off.

We practised choir in a dark, narrow room with large double doors, located directly in front of the stage so passers-by could see the rehearsals inside.

The curtains were deep red theatre curtains, whose lush velvet pile I can still feel when I think about choir practice that day.