The T&C are very clear. So I wouldn't necessarily agree with the concept of the action.
However, do folks really have sympathy for AC on this?
The same airline that imposes made up scam-charges on Aeroplan rewards? That lacks any sort of transparency or honesty or 1KK or R-space for upgrades? It's not like AC regularly shows any sense of moral duty, so why not join and see if it is possible to extract a pound of flesh from them.
My 2c worth.