A group of prominent African-Australian athletes has called for unity following recent racial tensions in Victoria.
In an open letter released on Thursday, the sportspeople acknowledged the "current social and youth issues causing harm, conflict and division".
"To be clear, we in no way, shape or form stand for such behaviour," the letter said.
But it went on to "urge the broader community to not allow it to define everyone of African descent" in Australia.
The letter was co-signed by AFL, VFL and VWFL players, professional basketball players and a professional kickboxer.
It included AFL players such North Melbourne's Majak Daw, Sydney's Aliir Aliir, Richmond's Mabior Chol, Hawthorn's Changkuoth Jiath, West Coast's Tony Olango and Port Adelaide's Emmanuel Irra.
It said the group had come together to "promote and represent the majority of the African-Australian community that are contributing and valued members of this country".
"Within the African-Australian communities are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, keen university students, children and young people with dreams and aspirations to become the next Majak Daw, Thon Maker or Deng Adut; respected professionals in their own right," the letter read.
"This is what should come to mind when assessing the general population of African-Australians.
"To every young African-Australian, be proud of your African identity but also embrace the Australian culture, as they go hand in hand. Keep focused on your dreams and aspirations and ride every bump along the way."
A series of crimes last December thrust the issue of African-Australian anti-social behaviour into the national spotlight.
In response, Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton claimed Melbourne residents were "scared to go out at restaurants" at night due to apparent "African gang violence".
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull similarly expressed concern about "the growing gang violence and lawlessness in Victoria".
Both were accused of racial stereotyping by some in the African-Australian community.
