From the Block to the Ballot: Why I Stepped Up for District 7

When a seat opened up on the Boston City Council, I felt the pull immediately — not out of ambition, but out of responsibility. Our neighborhoods — Roxbury, Dorchester, the South End, and Fenway — deserve leadership with lived experience, someone who truly knows what it means to navigate life in a marginalized community while still believing in the power of change.

For years, I’ve worked alongside my neighbors — not above them, not as a figurehead, but as a fellow resident. I’ve seen firsthand how city services — or the lack of them — directly impact our quality of life. When the rec centers are closed and the parks are dirty, it’s not just inconvenient — it’s a sign that we’re being overlooked. I’ve made calls to get our playgrounds cleaned, because our kids were playing next to human waste. I’ve helped organize community camps because our youth had no safe place to go. I’ve watched entire blocks go ignored while potholes tear up our cars and rodents run free. These things don’t just happen — they’re the result of budgets, priorities, and representation.

And that’s exactly why I got on the ballot.

I’m running because I know what it takes to translate city budgets into real change on the ground. I understand the cause and effect: when money doesn’t reach our streets, we see the consequences every day. I also understand what it takes to push the system — and when necessary, push back — to make sure our neighborhoods aren’t left behind.

I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and work, just like I always have. But now, I want to do it with the power to make systemic change — not just case-by-case fixes. The city needs someone who not only knows how to advocate, but who knows what needs to be advocated for.

I got on the ballot because District 7 deserves continuity, not confusion. We deserve representation that reflects our stories, our struggles, and our solutions.

This is about real leadership rooted in action, not appearances — and making sure our neighborhoods get the resources and respect they deserve.

This campaign is about uplifting our community through positive action and real solutions. I believe that when we lead with love, experience, and commitment, good things follow — and I know I’m the most positive candidate for the job.

I’m WaWa Bell, and I’m running for Boston City Council District 7. Let’s do this — together.