Cudahy Vice Mayor Cynthia Gonzalez has sparked controversy after a video surfaced where she appears to call on local gang leaders to organize against immigration enforcement actions. In the video, posted on social media, Gonzalez urged members of notorious gangs like 18th Street and Florencia 13 to "get your members in order" and resist ICE raids targeting immigrants. This statement has drawn significant backlash, with critics accusing her of inciting violence.
The video, which has since been removed, was recorded in a casual setting, possibly at a party, where Gonzalez, dressed in a black halter top and with club music playing in the background, challenged gang members to take action. She questioned their silence while the community faced what she described as an invasion by "the biggest gang there is," referring to ICE.
The fallout from her remarks has been swift. Conservative media outlets have criticized Gonzalez, framing her comments as a call to arms for gangs against law enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security labeled her statements "despicable," suggesting they could lead to violence against ICE agents. Following the backlash, Gonzalez claimed she was seeking legal advice after the FBI visited her home, though the agency did not confirm or deny her claims.
Local officials have distanced themselves from Gonzalez’s comments, stating that her views do not represent the city of Cudahy. Gonzalez, who has a background in education and has been active in immigrant rights, insists that her intentions were to mobilize community support against unjust immigration policies rather than to incite violence.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in Southern California, particularly in areas with significant Latino populations. Many community leaders are calling for unity and peaceful protests against ICE actions, emphasizing the need for collective action to support immigrant rights.
Gonzalez’s political future is uncertain as calls for her resignation grow louder. However, some supporters argue that her message, albeit poorly delivered, reflects a deeper frustration within the community regarding immigration raids and the treatment of immigrants. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Gonzalez and the broader dialogue about immigration in the region.