If RJ are operating flights, then they are perfectly entitled to hold the passenger to the terms of purchase. That you do not want to go is not really their problem and an issue between you and whoever you take travel insurance from ( yourself if none was taken )

If they do cancel the flight, then you should be fine for a refund

I would suggest that most people pick flights for reasons other than an addiction to AA miles.

It is nothing to do with the EP desk what RJ does