Canadians gathered from coast to coast on Friday to mark Indigenous Veterans Day, paying tribute to the thousands of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people who served and continue to serve in Canada’s Armed Forces.

In Ottawa, federal ministers issued a joint statement recognizing the sacrifices of Indigenous service members throughout history.

“On Indigenous Veterans Day, we honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis veterans, whose stories of bravery and service have marked Canada’s military history and continue to inspire us today,” the statement read.

Officials highlighted that an estimated 12,000 Indigenous people served in major conflicts of the 20th century, some of whom lost their lives during their time in service.

In Toronto, a public ceremony at the Spirit Garden in Nathan Phil

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