Vice Mayor Doctor Gonzales apologized at Tuesday’s Cudahy City Council meeting for a satirical TikTok video that drew national attention and criticism, saying the clip was made on her personal account and did not reflect an intent to promote violence. “I created this video in my personal time and on my personal page,” Vice Mayor Doctor Gonzales said. “I don’t believe violence by anyone is ever the solution to any of our problems. I want to apologize to city staff, members of the council and the community that my video took attention away from the pain our communities are experiencing.”

Public comment drew sharp responses. Brian Heyman, a resident, asked the council to censure the vice mayor and said the video “ratcheted up the anger and fear in the community.” A separate Zoom speaker urged immediate removal from office, saying elected leaders must “be peacemakers” and condemning any language perceived to legitimize violence.

Council reaction varied. Council Member Martin Fuentes publicly expressed support for the vice mayor and called for colleagues to allow her to continue serving. Other council members said they supported the vice mayor while acknowledging the harm and anxiety the video caused and called for steps to protect elected officials and provide clear communication to residents.

Policy response and related action: During the same meeting the council unanimously approved Resolution No. 25‑46, which the council described as encouraging small businesses to “uphold immigrant rights and adopt policies to limit civil immigration enforcement on private premises.” Council Member Gomez, who introduced the measure, said staff will coordinate with Inclusive Action and local business groups to distribute workshops and toolkits. The motion to adopt the resolution carried with no recorded dissents.

Broader concerns raised: Council members and speakers discussed community safety after recent immigration enforcement actions, with requests for the sheriff’s office to help identify federal immigration agents and for the city to consider renter protections. Vice Mayor Doctor Gonzales and others said the community has experienced traumatic enforcement encounters, and some council members said they will pursue additional policies including “Know Your Rights” outreach and potential eviction‑related protections.

No formal disciplinary action against the vice mayor was taken at the meeting.