Charles Allen, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, has been a lifelong advocate for coastal restoration and protection. Born on July 21, 1973, Allen spent his early years in the Gentilly neighborhood known as Voscoville, behind Dillard University. He later lived in New Orleans East before his father moved the family to the Lower Ninth Ward in 1980, where his father still resides. Allen's advocacy work began in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina when he joined the groundswell of voices calling for the closure of the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO). His commitment to community engagement and empowerment is deeply rooted in his family's values. Allen's paternal grandfather, Charles Allen Senior, and his father, both of whom he describes as "giants," instilled in him the importance of speaking simply and truthfully, engaging with people in power, and participating actively in civic life.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Charles Allen, conducted by Lauren Leonpacher on June 2nd, 2022, provides a detailed account of Allen's experiences and memories of Louisiana's wetlands, as well as his hopes for a sustainable future in coastal Louisiana. The conversation, which took place on the Bayou Bienvenue Wetland Platform in the Lower Ninth Ward in New Orleans, Louisiana, covers a range of topics, including Allen's personal history, his involvement in coastal restoration efforts, and his perspectives on community engagement and empowerment. Allen emphasizes the importance of not dumbing down information, being truthful and honest, and reminding those in power who hired them. He also stresses the importance of maintaining a focus on common goals, bonds, and themes, even in the face of disagreements. The interview concludes on a hopeful note, with Allen expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to share his experiences and insights.