Canada's Governor General Michaelle Jean admitted Thursday she was aware her publicity stunt of eating raw seal heart meat to support the seal trade was bound to be criticized and praised.

Jean explained to the Canadian Press, "I think a person in my position knows exactly what's in the air, and I'm aware of the context. I'm aware that now if you eat seal or wear something made of seal skin... it says that you recognize this activity."

She stressed that activity is a way of life for thousands of Inuits in Canada's Arctic region. Jean stressed, "It is part of their economy. It is well administrated. It is vital for them. It is done in a sustainable way. A very respectful way."

Among those who have thrown their support for the governor general were Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Defense Minister Peter MacKay who considered Jean the new Braveheart of Canada.

Jean is on a one-week tour of Canada's Arctic to celebrate Nunavut's 10th founding anniversary. On Sunday she will present various awards to five residents of Iqaluit in Nunavut.