U.S. President Barack Obama pledges to reduce gun violence, following the shooting at a movie theatre in Colorado.<br/> <br />During a speech to the National Urban League, Obama said all political leaders should find consensus on the issue.<br/> <br />But he emphasised his support for the Second Amendment - which covers the right to bear arms.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"I think we recognize the traditions of gun ownership that passed on from generation to generation, that hunting and shooting are part of a cherished national heritage. But I also believe that a lot of gun owners would agree that AK-47s belong in the hands of soldiers, not in the hands of criminals. That they belong on the battlefield of war, not on the streets of our cities. I believe the majority of gun owners would agree that we should do everything possible to prevent criminals and fugitives from purchasing weapons. "<br/> <br />Obama has avoided making proposals that could alienate gun owners and rally opponents in an election year.<br/> <br />But the issue has been highlighted by the Colorado shooting, which left 12 people dead.<br/> <br />On Wednesday (July 25), the first funeral was held for one of the victims.<br/> <br />Family, friends and officials gathered to remember 51-year-old Gordon Cowden - the oldest victim to be gunned down.<br/> <br />His cousin Molly Shaw said he had taken his two teenage daughters to the movie theatre.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: MOLLY SHAW, VICTIM'S COUSIN SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"The girls told us that as they were leaving the theatre that he was yelling after them, 'I love you. I love you both'."<br/> <br />Suspect James Holmes is expected to be charged on Monday (July 30).<br/> <br />Sarah Charlton, Reuters.
