Emma Bell first began her career in politics in the 1960's, with her participation in the election campaign of New York Mayor John Lindsey. She moved to Detroit in the early 1970's, and immediately became active in the politics and civic community of her new city.

Currently, Emma is the director of Public Affairs for the Wayne County Commission, where she has encouraged thousands of citizens to exercise their right to vote at the ballot box. Emma, as a civic community leader, has also dedicated countless hours to ensure that the needs of senior citizens in the community are met.

Emma participates in a number of community organizations including: the board of directors for the Black Caucus Foundation, Booker T. Washington Business Association, Boysville of Michigan, NAACP-Detroit Branch, National Political Congress of Black Women (National and the Greater Detroit Chapter), Polly Johnson Cancer Research Foundation, SHAR House, Trade Union Leadership Council, Young Women's Christian Association, and the Second Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Emma is the mother of one son, and is also a mentor for many young adults, helping them achieve success in politics, business and society.