In the late 1970s and 1980s she worked in a variety of administrative positions in the social services field, while also becoming involved in community politics.

Fields was known for her activism during the height of the civil rights movement in which she participated in a number of protests and marches, thus beginning her foray into social and political advocacy.

[4] Fields finished behind former Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer and Congressman Anthony Weiner, but ahead of City Council Speaker Gifford Miller.

Fields became President and CEO of the non-profit organization, National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA) in 2008.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams designated June 19, 2024 as C. Virginia Fields Day, which coincided with the National Juneteenth Holiday.