Correctional Association of New York (CANY) is an independent New York-based organization working to improve conditions in prisons. CANY confidentially communicates with incarcerated people about their experiences through the mail, one-on-one interviews, and collect phone calls, conducts onsite prison monitoring visits and listens to the problems of incarcerated people. This access to prisons creates a platform for people inside the prison to participate in and shape the public debate. CANY creates a platform for those most affected to directly share their experiences; document and disseminate information about system trends; and advocate for reform at individual prisons and at the system level.  CANY's focus area includes health i.e. examining the acute needs and barriers to effective health care within the New York prison system, dignity i.e. the arbitrary over-denial of parole applications and legitimacy i.e. a legitimate system in which power is used appropriately, rights are protected, and people have access to a process that ensures fair outcomes.