The Gede family of lwa are associated with the realm of the dead. The head of the family is Bawon Samdi or Bawon Samdi ("Saturday Baron "). His consort is Grand Brigitte; she has authority over cemeteries and is regarded as the mother of many of the other Gede. When the Gede are believed to have arrived at a Vodou ceremony they are usually greeted with joy because they bring merriment. Those possessed by the Gede at these ceremonies are known for making sexual innuendos; the Gede's symbol is an erect penis, while the "banda" dance associated with them involves sexual-style thrusting.