The Gelede festival promotes social harmony, because of this both men and women are involved within the society. With its connection to Iya Nla, or the Great Mother, the Gelede society has a large number of female members. This is in part because of its connection to motherhood and mothers, but also due to the belief that participation within this society helps in the fertility of the women. Men's participation within the masking performances are similarly linked, as participating in the performances could also increase fertility. Though men are not as concerned with this issue as women are due to the nature of the Yoruba society and women's roles within it.