Russia attempting to ban emo

No, really.

The State Duma, which represents the lower house of the Russian Parliament, have held hearings and proposed legislation for regulation of "emo" websites and banning the dress and style associated with the given youth culture, as well as goth.

The Moscow Times goes onto say that the legislative document, titled "Government Strategy in the Sphere of Spiritual and Ethical Education," defines what they view as the emo culture: "Emos, according to the bill, are from 12 to 16 years old and wear black and pink clothing. They have black hair with long bangs that ‘cover half the face,’ black fingernails, black belts peppered with studs and pins, and ear and eyebrow piercings."

The purpose of the bill is to prevent the "negative ideology" of emo culture, which "may push young people toward depression and social withdrawal." The "significant risk of suicide, especially for young girls," is also cited by the bill.

The bill’s supporters are looking to have it passed by the end of the year.